Preacher David's Corner

“Revivals in the Mountains!

I still love revivals. Viva! To live again!  Revival refers to a spiritual reawakening from a state of dormancy or stagnation in the life of a believer. It encompasses the resurfacing of a love for God, an appreciation of God's holiness, a passion for His Word and His church, a convicting awareness of personal and corporate sin, a spirit of humility, and a desire for repentance and growth in righteousness. Revival invigorates and sometimes deepens a believer's faith, opening his or her eyes to the truth in a fresh, new way. It generally involves the connotation of a fresh start with a clean slate, marking a new beginning of a life lived in obedience to God. Revival breaks the charm and power of the world, which blinds the eyes of men, and generates both the will and power to live in the world but not of the world. Churches in the Ashe Baptist Association have had or are planning on revivals to promote the cause of Christ. Although revivals are for the church, folks are being Spirit filled and others are accepting Christ as their Savior! Lost folks are being led by the Spirit to church again and we need to do our part to help them come to church and come to know Christ and to disciple them. Down trodden are being lifted up, weak Christians are being made strong and preachers are fulling their call to preach the word! Churches have three day revivals, week long revivals and some have joint revival in their community with other churches. Some have different denominations come together for revival. Some churches have a different speaker each night and travel to different churches each night. Singers have the opportunity to share Christ through song and we have some of the most gifted singers and musicians to be found anywhere! Don’t let the devil tell you revivals are not important! He is a liar and the truth is not in him. Talk to folks who have experienced true revival and they will share with you the importance of those church gatherings. Visiting church of different faiths, visiting churches in which they are not a member and helping them to have revival by praying and supporting the effort of promoting Christ strengthens all of the churches in a community. To allow God’s Holy Spirit to sweep over all of us like a mighty rushing wind is much needed in our society! When we accept Christ His Spirit lives with in us and aren’t we glad. To feel Him when we are alone, with another or in church as we gather in corporate worship is that part of revival that is so special. It can happen anytime, any where ,God is not limited by time or space. Whether in town or on Pond Mountain, God is there and has been all along. Today with lostness increasing exponentially , we need a revival in which believers are compelled by God’s Spirit once again to witness to their lost neighbors and friends anytime and anywhere. Lord , begin a revival and start it in me! God’s Spirit sent out Barnabas and Saul according to Acts 13:2-4. May the Holy Spirit revive us so that we once again witness to the lost neighbor, friend or family while there is still time. Prayer and fasting needs to be a priority in our life as we look for revival. May we be sent out and be the witness that God wants us to be. Spiritual giants through history had feet of clay. There were without exception , flawed people. You do not have to be perfect to be in Gods army. Thankful for 1 John 1:9. See you in the work! Let Him love you, heal you, restore you and strengthen you in the battle as we are all revived together. You may be in a wilderness at the moment , but be of good courage, another mountain top awaits!! May revival be yours through the power of Christ !

Your Servant , David